Where can I park my RV for free in Alaska?

In Alaska , you can park your RV for free in various locations, such as pullouts, rest areas, and some public lands. It is important to respect any posted signs and regulations, as well as to practice Leave No Trace principles. Here are some nearby RV camping options in Alaska : General RV camping options in Alaska RV camping options in Anchorage RV camping options in Talkeetna RV camping options in Homer Keep in mind that these options may not all be free, but they provide a variety of RV camping locations in Alaska for your convenience.

Camping in Alaska: Best Alaska Campgrounds 2023

Q: Can you camp anywhere in Alaska?

In Alaska , you cannot camp anywhere, but there are vast areas of public land where you can find dispersed camping opportunities. Alaska is home to numerous campgrounds, national parks, state parks, national forests, and wilderness areas where camping is permitted. However, it's essential to follow the rules and regulations of the specific area where you plan to camp, as some locations may have restrictions or designated camping sites. Dispersed camping is allowed on most public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the U.S. Forest Service, and the Alaska Department of Natural Resources. When camping in these areas, be sure to practice Leave No Trace principles, respect private property, and stay at least 100 feet away from lakes and streams. Some popular destinations for camping in Alaska include fishing campsites, glamping sites, and forest campsites.

Q: Is it safe to sleep in my car in Alaska?

Yes, it is generally safe to sleep in your car in Alaska , as long as you follow certain precautions and guidelines. Make sure to park in designated camping areas or RV parks, and be aware of the weather conditions, as temperatures can drop significantly at night. It's important to have proper sleeping gear, food, and water supplies, as well as a plan for restroom facilities. Additionally, be cautious of wildlife, such as bears, and store food and scented items securely. You can find some suitable locations for car camping in Alaska on Hipcamp, such as Safety Cove, Sealion Cove, and Sunny Cove.

United States
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Alaska

96% (572 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Alaska

Top camping destinations

Big Bear and Baby Bear State Marine Park

37 campgrounds

Tongass National Forest

37 campgrounds

Chugach National Forest

93 campgrounds

Sitka

5 campgrounds

The gentle trail hugs the water’s edge for a mile upstream, continuing over a small wood bridge and returns in the same fashion on the other side. Look up to spot wildlife in the rocky outcrops on both sides of the valley.

Denali National Park & Preserve

65 campgrounds

Skagway

5 campgrounds

12 top campgrounds in Alaska

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(221)

Under $50

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(31)

Lulu's Glamping on the Knik River

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Palmer, Matanuska Susitna

Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. Located on the river's edge of the Knik River in Palmer, Alaska, our glamping tents offer a unique experience. Unplug, unwind and kickback in our Stout canvas style bell tents. Each tent is stylishly outfitted with a queen size bed, linens, rugs, stylish decor and other amenities. You also will have your own smokeless Solo Stove with seating for two outside your tent. Only 45 minutes north of Anchorage, our location boasts incredible views with access to all things outdoor! There are shared porta toilets with foot pump sinks with soap for hand washing on site. There is one on demand outdoor shower! We have an outdoor kitchen with a BBQ grill, pots, pans, dishes, silverware, salt, pepper and other items for guest use. Half of the property is an adult glamping experience. Half of the property allows children, as long as you understand that we are located right on the river and children should be supervised. Our property is the perfect basecamp with easy access to hiking for all abilities; Bodenburg Butte, Lazy Mountain, Pioneer Peek and Pioneer Falls. Located right on the Knik River we can help you plan a day of fishing, kayaking or riverboat touring. Other local activities include ATV rentals, glacier helicopter tours, exploring the town of Palmer, the Alaska State Fair, a trip to the Reindeer Farm, Independence Mine State Historical Park, the Musk Ox Farm, horseback riding, touring our breweries, enjoying the local golf course, sled dog tours and so much more! Although we love pets, in order to keep tents clean and odor fee, pets are not allowed without permission. No smoking 🚭 Check in 4pm Check out 11am We ask that shoes be removed before enter the tent.

The Coop Camp

4 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · Nenana, Yukon Koyukuk

Nearly five acres surrounded by pristine Alaska-state land, and within short trekking distance of the famous Nenana river. Toghotthele mountain stands nearby, with some impressive hiking trails to be explored! The Tanana River is in short driving distance (3 miles) of the Coop Camp, as is shopping, a cultural museum and historical centers.

Stump Creek B&B

3 sites · Lodging, Tents10 acres · Eureka Roadhouse, Matanuska Susitna

The property at this location is very special to us because my grandfather homesteaded here in the 60s and it’s still in the family. This location was his and his wife’s main home of living where they made this homestead and rented cabins and had a little store to produce extra income to raise their family.

Valdez Adventure Alliance

27 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Valdez, Valdez Cordova

Once run by the state but is now managed by VAA. The beautiful Blueberry Lake campground on Thompson Pass has spectacular 360-degree mountain views. 20 sites are available on a paved loop road near the lake. Vault toilets and a water pump are available for use. Several sites work well as group camping sites. There are no RV hookups or pull-throughs. The McAllister cabin, at the mouth of Shoup Bay Marine State Park, is best accessed by kayak or boat. There is a narrow, tide dependent channel that leads to the inner lagoon where Moraine and Kittiwake cabins are located. Kayaks recommended for access.

Pinochle Trail Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Sutton Alpine, Matanuska Susitna

Flat, gravel spaces at Pinochle Trailhead in Glacier View, Alaska. Great hiking, biking, ATV or snow machine on historic trail. Tents, trucks, cars, campers, RVs, dogsleds .... whatever you can fit is welcome. 8 spaces with tables and fire rings. There is also an "Open Camping Area" in back that larger groups may like. Although a number may be assigned at booking, just pick the best available camp space that works for you on arrivial. You'll need to bring your own water and keep a clean camp. Pinochle Trail goes north into the backcountry for around 12 miles and joins other trails. Pinochle trail is a section of the ancient Knik - Nelchina Trail used by natives, trappers, miners and hunters for eons. It traverses the natural route from the Matanuska Valley up and over the mountain range into Copper River country. Hicks was one of the early guides who had a cabin at Hicks Creek and served with U.S. Army Lieutenant Joseph Castner to brushwack a trail northwest for Captain Glenn in 1898. Described in his journal as at "Tale of Hardship and Suffering" they ended up eating their mules and shoes before reaching their goal far to the north. Today we use these trails with relative ease compared to the old timers but the scenery and mud holes remind us of what they went through.

Available this weekend

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The Coop Camp

4 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · Nenana, Yukon Koyukuk

Nearly five acres surrounded by pristine Alaska-state land, and within short trekking distance of the famous Nenana river. Toghotthele mountain stands nearby, with some impressive hiking trails to be explored! The Tanana River is in short driving distance (3 miles) of the Coop Camp, as is shopping, a cultural museum and historical centers.

Valdez Adventure Alliance

27 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Valdez, Valdez Cordova

Once run by the state but is now managed by VAA. The beautiful Blueberry Lake campground on Thompson Pass has spectacular 360-degree mountain views. 20 sites are available on a paved loop road near the lake. Vault toilets and a water pump are available for use. Several sites work well as group camping sites. There are no RV hookups or pull-throughs. The McAllister cabin, at the mouth of Shoup Bay Marine State Park, is best accessed by kayak or boat. There is a narrow, tide dependent channel that leads to the inner lagoon where Moraine and Kittiwake cabins are located. Kayaks recommended for access.

Little Bear Wilderness Retreat

2 sites · Lodging13 acres · Susitna North, Matanuska Susitna

Here at Little Bear Cabins 30 minutes from Talkeetna, Alaska and Willow youll find a working off grid homestead with privacy and nature everywhere. Offering guided Alaskan plant walks and more! Private cabins with a wandering creek to explore with kayaks or skis as well as bikes all included ! Late fall its filled with salmon and trout. World class fly fishing all around you! Winter time the Northern lights will dance over you! With many trails to wander along and a bridge to view or swim. Summer or winter .. The birds here are like no other located in the migrating route of the predatory birds. You'll find nests all along the creek of rare birds.. Each cabin is private and has a firepit fridge and potable water provided . There are groomed ski trails and walking trails for guests with kayaks and bike to use during your stay .I offer guided walks of the garden and In the forest to learn about the edible and medicinal plants of Alaska. You will find stillness and nature all around you..

Kilcher Homestead MiracleMeadow

6 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · Homer, Kenai Peninsula

A few things that make my place unique: My 5 acres is part of the famous 620-acre Kilcher Homestead, as seen on “Alaska the Last Frontier” TV show. I am the 7th of the 8 children; Atz and Otto are my brothers. There is a special feeling here vibrating in the land, and why our parents picked this spot. Full outdoor kitchen with all you need to cook and wash up; BBQ, hotplate, pure drinking water, spices, pots/pans/dishes etc. Outdoor hot shower and outhouse with great views! The atmosphere feels so pure, so silent, so wild yet comfortable. Drive-in access sometimes, or have to walk 15 minutes, and no issues with mosquitoes!!! You get to meet me and maybe other family members as you cruise around. Homer is 35 minutes away, with oodles of things to do there: great restaurants, a lap pool, fun shopping, etc. We have quite good cell reception here. Lots of options to enjoy your stay!

Stump Creek B&B

3 sites · Lodging, Tents10 acres · Eureka Roadhouse, Matanuska Susitna

The property at this location is very special to us because my grandfather homesteaded here in the 60s and it’s still in the family. This location was his and his wife’s main home of living where they made this homestead and rented cabins and had a little store to produce extra income to raise their family.

Star Hosts in Alaska

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(9)

Majestic Denali Alaska Campsite

1 site · Tent1 acre · Cantwell, Denali

Just 30 minutes away from the South Entrance to Denali National Park, this is one of the best private campsites on the Parks Highway. We are strategically located on a secluded homestead. You can see Mount McKinley on a clear day! The nearby Summit Lake is perfect for fly fishing. This is a dry campsite, so No electric hookup, No water, No cabin, No services. We do not provide the RV - just the incredible scenery! Bring S'mores and some firewood and enjoy an Alaskan experience around the fire pit!

Lulu's Glamping on the Knik River

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Palmer, Matanuska Susitna

Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. Located on the river's edge of the Knik River in Palmer, Alaska, our glamping tents offer a unique experience. Unplug, unwind and kickback in our Stout canvas style bell tents. Each tent is stylishly outfitted with a queen size bed, linens, rugs, stylish decor and other amenities. You also will have your own smokeless Solo Stove with seating for two outside your tent. Only 45 minutes north of Anchorage, our location boasts incredible views with access to all things outdoor! There are shared porta toilets with foot pump sinks with soap for hand washing on site. There is one on demand outdoor shower! We have an outdoor kitchen with a BBQ grill, pots, pans, dishes, silverware, salt, pepper and other items for guest use. Half of the property is an adult glamping experience. Half of the property allows children, as long as you understand that we are located right on the river and children should be supervised. Our property is the perfect basecamp with easy access to hiking for all abilities; Bodenburg Butte, Lazy Mountain, Pioneer Peek and Pioneer Falls. Located right on the Knik River we can help you plan a day of fishing, kayaking or riverboat touring. Other local activities include ATV rentals, glacier helicopter tours, exploring the town of Palmer, the Alaska State Fair, a trip to the Reindeer Farm, Independence Mine State Historical Park, the Musk Ox Farm, horseback riding, touring our breweries, enjoying the local golf course, sled dog tours and so much more! Although we love pets, in order to keep tents clean and odor fee, pets are not allowed without permission. No smoking 🚭 Check in 4pm Check out 11am We ask that shoes be removed before enter the tent.

100%

(27)

Rustic Riverside Camp

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Pleasant Valley, Fairbanks North Star

Welcome to our beautiful, private, rustic camp situated along the bank of the North Fork Chena River just 55 miles NE of Fairbanks lies the perfect camping experience just 2 miles from Chena Hot Springs Resort. We are located a 1/2mile off Chena Hot Springs Road, on the famous Yukon Quest Trail. Our camp is accessible to those exploring Alaska by vehicle, motorcycle, bike, truck camper, travel van or small RV. Come stay in one of our cute cabins, park or pitch your tent under the midnight sun – enjoy fishing, hiking, atving, berry picking, wildlife watching and more.

100%

(26)

Grouse Lake Campground

8 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Bear Creek, Kenai Peninsula

HEADS UP: THE SEWARD HIGHWAY FROM MILE 8 TO MILE 0 IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION! TANKER TRUCKS WILL BE PUMPING WATER FROM GROUSE LAKE AT NIGHT DURING THE REST OF THE SUMMER: SUNDAY, MONDAY, TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY NIGHTS. IT'S VERY LOUD! ALL NIGHT! FRIDAY AND SATURDAY NIGHTS ARE OPEN. THEY WILL NOT BE PUMPING ON FRIDAY NIGHTS AND SATURDAY NIGHTS. I blocked out the days that they will be pumping, and left open the days that they will not be pumping. At the end of Grouse Creek Rd, Grouse Lake Campground, which is a Walk in-Tent Only campground, borders Grouse Lake, and is approximately 7 1/2 miles north of Seward. The campground now sits where once the Seward highway ran prior to the highway being rerouted on the other side of the property along the AK railroad. The backside of each campsite butts up against a mossy rock wall where the road was once carved out of the mountainous environment. The front-side of each campsite has a beautiful view of the lake. Besides being a beautiful relaxing area to kick back and enjoy the summer, there are fish in the lake. According to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, "during the open water season the best fishing is when Dolly Varden enter (August-September) and exit (mid-May through early June) the lake. As these fish migrate in large schools, be careful not to snag or foul hook the fish. Best ice fishing at Grouse Lake is from December through early April. Try single salmon eggs or small lures. 'Resurrection Bay Fresh Water' regulations," (Fishing in the Seward Area, http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/static-sf/region2/pdfpubs/seward.pdf 2016). And, since Grouse Lake, and Grouse Lake Campground border the Chugach National Forest, it is wise to remember, there will be wildlife. Besides seagulls escaping stormy Pacific ocean weather, there are owls, and eagles, and occasional ravens, humming birds and other small birds, land otters, beavers, moose, and the occasional bear. Chugach National Forest is abundant with wildlife, both small critters, and large critters. Keeping this in mind, and following the safety guides that can be found on https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=educators.wildlifesafety will ensure an Alaskan adventure to enjoy, journal, and remember. As the second largest forest in the National Forest System, Chugach National Forest is also in the northern most range of the Pacific temperate rainforest region. Therefore, rain-gear is essential for a more comfortable camping experience. For more info visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/chugach/ OPEN DATES: May 31st to Sept 14th, 2023. NO PARTIES OR EVENTS. TENT CAMPING ONLY. 15136 GROUSE CREEK RD, SEWARD, AK 99664

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96%

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Chugach National Forest

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100%

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Denali National Park & Preserve

Petersville, Alaska

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Tongass National Forest

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Kenai River Special Management Area

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Nancy Lake State Recreation Area

Big Lake, Alaska

Camping in Alaska guide

Alaska is a bucket list trip for people around the globe thanks to some of the world's largest intact ecosystems and the chance to spot incredible wildlife. Here you'll find wild salmon runs filling the ocean bays and rivers where brown bears feast, plus giant moose roaming the big river valleys and mountains. While some incredible parts of Alaska are accessible by highways, many areas are so remote that road systems don't exist, meaning access is by bush flight, boat, or on foot. Camping in Alaska can mean everything from pitching tents on a riverbank or enjoying comfortable RV parks adjacent to wild areas.

Where to Go

Bristol Bay

Bristol Bay is an expansive region with massive lakes, huge ocean bays and wild rivers. It’s known for abundant salmon runs that draw anglers and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world. Visit Katmai National Park and Preserve to watch bears catch salmon on Brooks Falls or fish for salmon and giant rainbow trout on the mighty Kvichak River. Lake Iliamna and the rivers in this area offer incredible fishing, sightseeing and boating.

Kenai Peninsula

Some areas in Alaska are road accessible, making them perfect for camping and exploring at your own pace. The Kenai Peninsula is one of those special places where you can experience the best of Alaska from RV sites and tent camping areas at private and public campgrounds in places like Soldotna. Go fishing on the mighty Kenai River for salmon and trout, take a cruise through the Kenai Fjords National Park, take a dog sledding tour or go hiking on the many miles of trails on this wild peninsula.

Southeast Alaska

The rugged Southeast coastline is dotted with small communities, many of which are isolated from any highway systems. Ketchikan and Juneau are two hubs to visit for access to the expansive Tongass National Forest. Prince of Wales Island has limited services but rental vehicles and island roads allow for access to go fishing and hunting in this remote area.

Denali National Park

Accessible by road system, Denali National Park leads many visitors to fly into Anchorage and rent a vehicle or RV to visit. The incredible peak is more than 20,000-feet high and the surrounding Alaska Range is absolutely stunning. If you want an unforgettable view, consider flightseeing tours to gain elevation and really get into the mountains. Moose and bear sightings are common and the trails offer a range of hiking options for visitors. This park is fantastic and is accessible for a wide range of budgets and camping styles.

Where to Go

Alaska is a two-season state where it’s either feeling like summer or winter. In summer, the days are long, leaving plenty of time to explore and very little darkness to help you sleep. The inverse is true during the winter months. The first snowfall, also called termination dust, typically arrives sometime in September and it coincides with rapid color changes and shorter days. Most visitors arrive during summer when the salmon are running and bush flights operate in places like Bristol Bay on regular flight schedules. Although summer is ideal for most campers, winter does have special events like dog sledding races and views of the northern lights.

Frequently Asked Questions

In Alaska, you can park your RV for free in various locations, such as pullouts, rest areas, and some public lands. It is important to respect any posted signs and regulations, as well as to practice Leave No Trace principles. Here are some nearby RV camping options in Alaska:

General RV camping options in Alaska
RV camping options in Anchorage
RV camping options in Talkeetna
RV camping options in Homer

Keep in mind that these options may not all be free, but they provide a variety of RV camping locations in Alaska for your convenience.

In Alaska, you cannot camp anywhere, but there are vast areas of public land where you can find dispersed camping opportunities. Alaska is home to numerous campgrounds, national parks, state parks, national forests, and wilderness areas where camping is permitted. However, it's essential to follow the rules and regulations of the specific area where you plan to camp, as some locations may have restrictions or designated camping sites.

Dispersed camping is allowed on most public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the U.S. Forest Service, and the Alaska Department of Natural Resources. When camping in these areas, be sure to practice Leave No Trace principles, respect private property, and stay at least 100 feet away from lakes and streams. Some popular destinations for camping in Alaska include fishing campsites, glamping sites, and forest campsites.

Yes, Alaska is an excellent destination for camping, offering a wide range of camping experiences from remote wilderness locations to well-maintained campgrounds. The state's vast and diverse landscape, including mountains, glaciers, forests, and coastal areas, provides an unparalleled backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular camping destinations in Alaska include Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Additionally, there are numerous state parks, national forests, and private campgrounds throughout the state to suit various camping preferences. Keep in mind that due to Alaska's northern location, the camping season is generally shorter than in other parts of the United States, with the best time to camp being from late May to early September.

Campground fees in Alaska can vary depending on the location, amenities, and type of site. On average, you can expect to pay around $10 to $25 per night for a basic tent or RV site at public campgrounds. More developed campgrounds with additional facilities and services may charge higher fees.

Yes, it is generally safe to sleep in your car in Alaska, as long as you follow certain precautions and guidelines. Make sure to park in designated camping areas or RV parks, and be aware of the weather conditions, as temperatures can drop significantly at night. It's important to have proper sleeping gear, food, and water supplies, as well as a plan for restroom facilities. Additionally, be cautious of wildlife, such as bears, and store food and scented items securely. You can find some suitable locations for car camping in Alaska on Hipcamp, such as Safety Cove, Sealion Cove, and Sunny Cove.